Austin Animal Center preparing for busy kitten season

AUSTIN - Due to unusually warm temperatures this winter, the Austin Animal Center is expecting a busier-than-usual kitten season this spring and summer.

The center is partnering with the Austin Humane Society to trap, neuter and return feral or neighborhood cats in different communities, Austin Animal Center said in a press release. They usually see about 9,000 cats and kittens, many of which they said requires intensive care.

If you see cats or kittens in your neighborhood, here's what the Austin Animal Center would like for you to do:

Kittens found under six weeks old should be left alone. Their mother often leave to search for food for several hours at a time

Kittens between six to 12 weeks old should be brought to the shelter where they can be spayed, neutered and returned or kept for adoption, depending on age and overall health

If you see cats roaming around your neighborhood, contact Austin Animal Center's "Community Cat" coordinator at communitycats@austintexas.gov or at 512-978-0504

Cats or kittens that are sick, injured or geriatric should be brought to to Austin Animal Center from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week